Keeping Busy

I haven't had a whole lot of exciting foods lately.  I haven't really even had any impressive grocery store hauls as of late either.  So in the way of food it's been pretty boring.  That is part of the reason I haven't posted much.  Another reason is that I am keeping busy.  Normally I would post about what has been keeping me busy but I decided long ago that I would try to keep My Blissful Journey free of politics.  Having said that...I will explain...

About a year ago I started asking questions and attending events that our local League of Women Voters put on.  The more I participated in things the more I wanted to be a part of just about everything they did.  A few months in...I decided to officially join.  I absolutely LOVE it!  It's probably one of the BEST choices I have ever made.  I have become VERY active and I just know that 2017 will continue to be just as interesting to me.

I'm going to continue to try and NOT make THIS blog about that but a while back a few of us started a private blog and I'm thinking about blogging about some stuff there - in a SAFE place.  I know a few friends have had issues with online bullying and political bullying and I don't want to open anyone up to that.  My Blissful Journey is a positive space.  And with the old private blog where I feel like I can open up about that more - it's just that - PRIVATE - and a bully free zone.  All like minds welcome, tho!  If you are interested let me know!

A few other things that have been keeping me busy is work, Sororitea Sisters, submitting recipes to Global Love Project, my involvement with a local Impacting Poverty Group, and County Fair stuff, PLUS, family stuff!  My sister is doing well and about half way thru her 9 months!  It looks like she will be having a girl!

I like keeping busy.  It actually makes me feel better.  That goes back to my high school days, too!  The more involved I was the better my grades were.  Now that I'm in my upper 30s - the busier I am the more focused I feel.

Lunch Break Update, Cheerleaders, and Motivation

I've been switching back and forth from Reggae to New Wave music as of late.  The song in the background is Cheerleader by Omi.  One thing I didn't mention in this video was the song itself.  Eventho it's more of a love song/song of a male/female relationship there were some of the phrases in the lyrics made me think about community/support/a shoulder to lean on of sorts when it comes to vegetarianism, veganism, or raw food.  It could also be applied to those trying to lose weight or stop smoking in a sense it's always good to have a cheerleader, right? I guess that is one of the reasons I started vlogging.  I want to bounce certain ideas off on people with like minds and interest yet be there for people who need motivation and inspiration but I myself need inspiration and motivation, too!

In this video I also talk about my hopes to include a cooler and place inside my car for raw foods, water, juices, smoothies, snacks to enjoy while driving during work.  Not only to make sure I am eating enough quality whole foods during the day but also refrain from purchasing lunches everyday and wasting money!

Supporting Meat-Free Projects

Often times when there are projects I would like to support in some way - they are no where near me!  These TWO Meat-Free Projects are certainly following suit!  No Meat March was started in Jacksonville, FL, and this will be the 2nd year I will participate 'in spirit' and online.  There is an option to start a No Meat March Event in your community but to be honest I highly doubt I can get enough interest in my area.  It's sad but it's true.  YEARS ago I worked HARD to organize Vegetarian Potlucks.  The people who did attend basically came to help me out - such as my parents and sister and a few friends.  At that time there were more vegetarians in the area but they rarely attended.  It was very strange.  Anyhow...I like to participate - even if it's online!  So that's what I am doing with No Meat March and Meat Free Week.  Meat Free Week is based out of Australia.  Question of the Day - which projects are you currently participating in online or in your community!? 

The Reason I've Been 'Few & Far Between"

The main reason I have been 'few and far between with my posts lately is because last week our company and our community lost someone very special.  He lost his battle with cancer after a dozen years or more.  He was a fighter, that is for sure!  He's been with the company I work for since 1975-1976.  He was very active in the community and the boards and organization such as Salvation Army, Chamber, Kiwanis, etc.  He was a huge part of his church...a Sunday School Teacher, Youth Mentor, and much more!  He was married for 9 years to his darling of a wife.  He has two grown sons, two grown stepdaughters, and 3 grandchildren.  He was like a father to my husband.  He was a friend.  He was extremely social, funny, witty, helpful, brave, and compassionate.  Work was very strange last week.  I'm glad he's at peace but still very sad he's not around.  The service was beautiful.  The poem above is "Nothing Gold Can Stay" by Robert Frost.  I remember back to The Outsiders from the 80s as it was recited but it's always stuck with me throughout the years as one of my favorite Robert Frost Poems, too!